Timeline Charts In Project Management

Project management is a versatile sphere with different tools & methodologies.

Managers all over the world try to use innovative techniques and new trends to improve their business results. However, there is at least one component that appears in every project. There are some basic and interesting facts about project timelines charts.

What is a Project Timelines Charts?

Timelines are extremely important in project management because they help to visualize time-related metrics, synchronize tasks, set deadlines and define potential delays. The diagrams are useful for managers. Timelines will help you to visualize three main timeframes: planned time, actual time in-progress and forecasted time.

Usually, managers use project timeline charts for:

Projects and tasks planning

Road mapping

Portfolio management

Timeline Diagram Components

The diagram structure depends on the tasks description. Timelines may be highly detailed or simple. One should pay attention to:

The set of tasks and objectives to be completed;

All dates and deadlines;

Dependencies between objectives;

Expected duration of tasks.

Actually, timelines can take many forms, but the most popular and powerful option is Gantt chart.

Gantt Chart includes horizontal bars, which represent the duration of tasks. It really provides an easy visual depiction of the project.

What are the purposes of project timelines charts?

Timeline charts are good for projects involving many people. It does not demand a lot of time or efforts to make a chart and keep it.

5 Gantt Charts Benefits

As Gantt charts keep users on track and provide a visual timeline for starting and finishing tasks, they really help to avoid project’s completion confusion.

If you manage a complex task, Gantt project plan diagrams eliminate misunderstandings and keep everyone on the page.

The diagrams help to clarify task relationships and get the best workflow and overall success.

Users can clearly understand where resources need to be allocated or shared.

The charts help decision makers to look ahead to ensure each given project is working toward the achievement of the company’s strategic goals.

How to make project timelines charts?

Today managers have possibilities to use any specialized project management software to create and manage their tasks with the help of charts and diagrams.